5 November 2024
Writing: Mr Bellamy
In the famous halls of Lord’s Cricket Ground, Challoners of past and present gathered to recognise the inestimable value of sport at DCGS. Together we entered one of the world’s most iconic venues, the Long Room, to celebrate competitive success and our program of mass participation.
The evening started with a special drinks reception, as school governors, alumni, ex-school captains, parents, honorary guests and staff filed into the room. Surrounding the bar were many pictures of notable DCGS highlights, which, of course, drew all attention away from famous paintings decorating the walls. The famous Long Room was the perfect venue to celebrate such a legacy of sporting success; the backdrop, often coined the “Home of Cricket”, aptly reflected the sporting tradition that has shaped generations.
We were privileged enough to be joined by some very special guests, who presented the evening with aplomb. The order of ceremonies was led by Adam Collins, an Australian commentator, and ex-government advisor. Adam wonderfully mixed humour and sincerity throughout the evening, making himself the only Aussie I’ve been sad to see walk off at Lord’s…
This was followed by guest speaker David Millar (Professional road cyclist: four time stage winner of the Tour de France and British national road champion 2007). Millar recalled his childhood with sport, and in particular, his pathway into professional cycling through the support and belief of one teacher. Much success followed. Subsequent to this, he spoke candidly about his experiences of doping within the sport and the ubiquitous, insidious nature of its use. Now, Millar is a powerful advocate for anti-doping in cycling and beyond, encouraging greater fairness and openness in sport. To conclude, David reminded us of the importance of sport for our mental and physical health, as well as highlighting the invaluable lessons we can gain from exposure to fellow humans through sporting endeavours. This, we reminded ourselves, was something DCGS gets just right.
Throughout the event, delicious food was served, as tables of re-united alumni and teachers caught up on stories old and new. Particularly special for me was chatting with sixth formers from my very early years at the school, who have now moved on to fantastic jobs in the army, banking, law and consulting. The alumni network remains fierce with Challoner’s spirit.
The evening would not have been possible without the fantastic organisation of Mrs Atkinson and her team, who worked tirelessly to put on a flawless event that impressively encompassed the success of sport at Challoner’s. It was the perfect event to celebrate the past, present and future of sport at our school, which continues to provide so much to the fabric of our community. I would also like to recognise the PE staff, who work extremely hard to facilitate mass participation at DCGS, which subsequently drives regional and national success, whilst instilling a vital love for sport in its students.
Whilst the school might have to wait another 400 years for an event like this, I am certain that the excellence celebrated will continue for many years to come.
